What does mixed methods research involve?

Mixed methods research involves both qualitative and quantitative approaches. This approach is designed to leverage the strengths of both methodologies, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem. By combining qualitative data, which can offer in-depth insights into participants' perspectives and experiences, with quantitative data, which can provide statistical analysis and generalizability, researchers can enhance the validity and richness of their findings.

For example, a study on community policing might utilize quantitative surveys to measure the effectiveness of different policing strategies while also conducting qualitative interviews to capture community members' experiences and feelings about those strategies. This triangulation of data helps to paint a fuller picture of the issue at hand and allows for more informed conclusions and recommendations.